Moonshine BBQ Sauce
Moonshine BBQ Sauce is a bold and smoky sauce featuring a blend of rich tomato, vinegar, and sweet molasses with a hint of whiskey. This tangy yet savory sauce enhances meats like ribs, chicken, and pulled pork, delivering a unique kick. Perfect for those who enjoy a flavorful, spirited BBQ experience.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Heat-resistant spatula
- Storage jar or bottle
Ingredients
- 1½ cups Dijon mustard
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¾ cup beer a light lager or pale ale works well
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1½ ounces 1 shot moonshine
- 1 teaspoon Louisiana-style hot sauce optional
Instructions
Combine Base Ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and beer until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is dissolved.
Add Spices:
- Stir in the chili powder, cracked black pepper, ground white pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Simmer the Sauce:
- Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Incorporate Flavor Enhancers:
- Add the Worcestershire sauce and moonshine to the saucepan. Continue to simmer the sauce for an additional 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a spicier kick, add the Louisiana-style hot sauce during this step.
Cool and Store:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. Transfer the cooled sauce into a sealable jar or bottle. For optimal flavor, refrigerate the sauce overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
❖ Moonshine Selection: The moonshine you choose can drastically affect the flavor of the sauce. I recommend trying a fruit-flavored moonshine like peach, apple, or cherry for a sweet, subtle touch. If you prefer a more robust taste, try a classic clear moonshine.
❖ Adjusting Consistency: If you find the sauce too thick after cooling, you can always thin it out with a little water or extra vinegar until it reaches your desired consistency.
❖ Make It Spicy: If you like your BBQ sauce with a kick, I recommend adding more cayenne pepper or even a bit of hot sauce. This is totally up to your personal heat tolerance!